The weather has been freezing so I thought it would be the perfect time to make some delicious soups! Then I thought $5 soups …

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$5 Soups! Quick and Easy Cheap Meals for Dinner

In today’s fast-paced world, everyone is looking for ways to save both time and money while still enjoying delicious meals. Soups are one of the best solutions for affordable dinners—nutritious, filling, and often very simple to prepare. Here’s a list of five soups that you can whip up for around $5 each, perfect for a quick supper on a budget!

1. Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 can of diced tomatoes ($1)
• 1 bag of mixed frozen vegetables ($2)
• 4 cups of vegetable broth ($1)
• 1 onion ($0.50)
• 2 cloves of garlic ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), frozen vegetables, and vegetable broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any herbs you have on hand (like bay leaves or thyme).
5. Serve hot for a hearty, warming meal!

Total Cost: $5

2. Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of lentils ($1)
• 1 carrot ($0.30)
• 1 celery stalk ($0.30)
• 1 onion ($0.50)
• 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth ($1)
• 2 cloves of garlic ($0.50)
• Spices (cumin, pepper) ($1)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a pot, sauté chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery in oil until they start to soften.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the lentils, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
4. Blend with an immersion blender if you prefer a creamier texture, and enjoy!

Total Cost: $5

3. Potato and Leek Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 medium potatoes ($1.50)
• 1 leek ($1)
• 1 onion ($0.50)
• 4 cups of vegetable broth ($1)
• 1 cup milk or cream ($1)
• Salt and pepper to taste ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. Chop the leeks and onions, then sauté them in a pot with a little oil until softened.
2. Peel and dice the potatoes, adding them to the pot with the broth.
3. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat; simmer until potatoes are tender (about 20 minutes).
4. Blend the mixture until smooth. Stir in milk or cream and season with salt and pepper.

Total Cost: $5

4. Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of shredded rotisserie chicken ($2)
• 4 cups chicken broth ($1)
• 2 cups of egg noodles ($1)
• 1 carrot ($0.30)
• 1 celery stalk ($0.30)
• 1 onion ($0.50)

Instructions:

1. In a pot, sauté chopped onion, diced celery, and carrots.
2. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions.
4. Add shredded chicken and simmer until everything is heated through.

Total Cost: $5

5. Tomato Basil Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of crushed tomatoes ($2)
• 1 onion ($0.50)
• 2 cloves of garlic ($0.50)
• 1 cup of fresh basil or 2 tablespoons dried basil ($1)
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth ($1)

Instructions:

1. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in a pot.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and basil, bringing everything to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Blend if desired for a creamy consistency and serve warm!

Total Cost: $5

Conclusion

These five soups are not only budget-friendly at around $5 each, but they’re also quick and easy to make, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Packed with nutrients and flavor, these soups can be customized based on what you have on hand. So gather your ingredients, grab your pot, and enjoy a delicious, comforting bowl of soup without breaking the bank!